Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a fun twist on two classic comfort foods combined into one tasty dish. It mixes tender beef, cheesy tortellini pasta, and all the flavors you love…
Tip: save now, cook later.Beef Enchilada Tortellini is a fun twist on two classic comfort foods combined into one tasty dish. It mixes tender beef, cheesy tortellini pasta, and all the flavors you love from enchiladas like savory spices and a rich, slightly tangy sauce. The result is a hearty meal with a great balance of meaty goodness and melty cheese wrapped up in soft little pasta pockets.
I really enjoy making this when I want something a little different but still super satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that always gets compliments because it feels familiar yet special at the same time. I like to add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream on top to brighten it up and add even more flavor.
Serving it with a simple green salad or some warm tortillas on the side makes it a complete meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s a great dish to share with family because everyone can dig in, and it’s filling without being complicated. I always find myself coming back to this recipe when I want a cozy dinner that’s quick to prepare but packed with flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dish its rich, meaty flavor. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. If you want it vegetarian, swap with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is great for a creamy, cheesy center. You can use spinach or mushroom tortellini if you want a veggie twist. Fresh or refrigerated pasta works best here for quick cooking.
Enchilada Sauce: The sauce brings classic Mexican flavor. Use store-bought red enchilada sauce for convenience, or whip up your own with tomato sauce and spices. For a milder taste, try a green enchilada sauce.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create that signature enchilada flavor. Adjust the amounts to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicier works well.
Cheese: The Mexican blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack) melts perfectly and adds tasty richness. Mozzarella can be a substitute, or a combination of Gouda and mild cheddar if preferred.
How Do You Get the Tortellini to Absorb All the Enchilada Flavors?
After tossing the cooked tortellini into the beef and sauce mixture, gently mix everything without breaking the pasta. This helps tortellini soak up the rich sauce but keeps them intact.
- Cook tortellini just al dente – don’t overcook, or they’ll get mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Simmer the beef sauce first so it’s flavorful and slightly thickened before adding the pasta.
- Fold tortellini into the sauce off the heat or on low to prevent overcooking.
- Let the cheese melt with a cover on top to create a creamy texture that binds the dish together.
- Serving with a dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances spices and adds moisture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling tortellini quickly without sticking.
- Large skillet – I like one with a lid to cook the beef and melt cheese evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
- Colander – helps drain tortellini fast and easily.
- Measuring spoons – to get your spices just right for that enchilada flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and a boost of fiber.
- Stir in chopped green chilies to amp up the heat and add a fresh kick.
- Top with diced avocado or fresh jalapeños for a creamy or spicy finish.
Beef Enchilada Tortellini Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 package (9 oz/250g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (red)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack)
- 1/3 cup sour cream (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it ready in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to evenly coat the beef with spices.
3. Combine Sauce and Tortellini:
Add the diced tomatoes and enchilada sauce to the skillet with the beef. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Then, gently fold the cooked tortellini into the beef and sauce mixture to coat evenly.
4. Melt the Cheese & Serve:
Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese over the mixture in the skillet. Cover and let it melt for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top. For a complete meal, add warm tortillas or crusty bread on the side.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions before adding it to the beef mixture. Thawing isn’t necessary but helps prevent extra water in the dish.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat, cooked lentils, or black beans. Use vegetable broth or water to keep the sauce flavorful and follow the rest of the steps as usual.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the beef sauce and cook the tortellini in advance, then combine and add cheese just before serving. Store refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stove.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
